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The world's 20 oldest cities

13. Arbil, Iraq

When did the earliest inhabitants settle? 2,300 BC

North of Kirkuk lies Arbil, ruled at various times by the Assyrians, Persians, Sasanians, Arabs and Ottomans. It was a major stop on the Silk Road while its ancient citadel - which rises 26 metres from the ground - still dominates the skyline.